Mark Klahn Obituary
Mark graduated from Gresham High School and furthered his education at Mt. Hood Community College. He proudly served in the US Navy for 23 years, retiring with numerous commendations and a deep bond with his fellow servicemen. Following his military service, Mark co-owned the Gresham Liquor Store with his sister Laurie for 25 years, where he was famous for his knowledge of spirits and his ever-present dad and pirate jokes.
Beyond his professional life, Mark was an enthusiastic Oregon Ducks fan, a passionate collector of guns and knives, and an avid motorcyclist. He enjoyed cooking, especially smoking brisket, and was always eager to discuss the latest gadgets. His love for travel and languages often saw him engaging with people in their native tongues. Most of all Mark loved being a family man. Mark was also an active member of the Gresham Rotary, Gresham Chamber of Commerce, and volunteered frequently at the Gresham Elks Lodge, East Portland Moose Lodge, and Helping Hands of Columbia Gorge.
Mark leaves behind his loving wife, Michelle; daughter, Alexis of Tigard; son, Taylor and his wife, Sydney of Corbett; seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sister, Laurie Klahn of Gresham; brother, Paul Klahn of Gresham; and niece Katie and nephews, Tommy and Kyle. He was preceded in death by his parents, Roger and Karen Klahn.
A celebration of life will be held at the East Portland Moose Lodge #1891, 16411 NE Halsey St., Portland, OR 97230, on June 21st, 2025 from 2-8pm. The event will feature food and music to celebrate Mark's remarkable life.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Mooseheart or Helping Hands of the Columbia Gorge in Mark's name, honoring his legacy of generosity and community service.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Tina and Tim Schilz
June 21, 2025
He was an amazing man. Thanks for sharing
Gabriela Kandziora
June 17, 2025
I met Mark at an annual motorcycle ride back in 2015. He was with Debbie (R.I.P.)then. Mark was cool, kind, funny, and a gentleman. Was always wonderful to see Mark and Deb together on rides. I became good friends with Deb and joined her at Premiere Property Group. Loved seeing Mark be happy with Michelle, they were a wonderful couple. Always enjoying life and each other. My condolences to Michelle and Mark´s family. Sending Love. We will all see each other again on the other side. Auf Wiedersehen = Until We See Each Other Again
Diane Faubion Weay
June 15, 2025
Thank you for bringing such a wonderful light and love into my sisters life. I love you. You will always be remembered with great kindness and love.
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Riley Ross
June 14, 2025
One of my favorite memories, one that fills me with pure joy, was going to a Ducks game with Markey and my dad. I had just finished chemo, and more than anything, I wanted to be at a ducks game, soaking it all in. But that day wasn´t just about football, it was about laughter, connection, and being surrounded by love. Markey brought the energy, the stories, and that big, warm-hearted vibe that made everything feel so chill. Being with him truly made you feel welcomed. He enjoyed conversation.
Markey had this amazing way of turning even the simplest moment into something magical. He had a heart full of gold and an unstoppable love for life. He lit up every room, and watching the way he absolutely beamed when he saw my daughter Mazey is a memory I´ll treasure forever. She took to him right away, how could she not? His relaxed vibe and energetic smile was magnetic.
I always smiled hearing about Markey waking up early to fire up the smoker, or cooking through the night, he was in his element feeding the people he loved. He took pride in every juicy brisket, asking, "So what´d you think?" with that questionable look on his face, even though it was always, always delicious. I know he always knew it was. Whether it was game day or just another day in Goldendale, you could taste the love in every bite.
And the pirate jokes! The goofy karate moves! Classic Markey. He brought fun and silliness wherever he went. He always carried the kid in him, was never shy to express it. He was a total gadget guy, always excited to show off his latest knife, gun, camera, or tool. I´m lucky to have one of his knives, using it always brings him back to me in the best way.
That game with Markey wasn´t just a game that day, it was joy, it was love, it was a lot of drinking, but most of all it was a memory I´ll carry for the rest of my life. It was family wrapped in Ducks green and gold. And his spirit, loud and full of laughter, is still with us, cheering, dancing, and telling one more pirate joke for the road.
We miss you. Thank you for all that you´ve shared. Thank you for all that you given. Thank you for an heart full of love. And most of all thank you for being you. Go Ducks.
Amber Friend
June 14, 2025
Every interaction with Mark was such a blessing and joy. He always had a joke ready and I always laughed. He truly was a one of kind special soul and will be deeply missed.
Sherry kovas
June 14, 2025
I first met Mark through my husband, Roger Kovas, who he was friends with. He was such a nice man had such a good heart. Roger and I send our condolences to all his family.
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